12 Essential items for your Overland Recovery Kit

Posted by Chris Fleugel on March 15, 2023

Carrying a well-stocked recovery kit is essential for any overland enthusiast who plans to venture off-road. Here are some items that should be included in a basic recovery kit:

A RUX 70L: The RUX System is the best overland storage solution. Collapsable, modular components, wicked durable, all backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Recovery Straps: A recovery strap is a high-strength, dynamic tow strap that is used to pull a vehicle out of a ditch, mud, snow, or other sticky situations. The RUX Bag is a great place to store your tow straps too!
Winch: When a recovery strap isn’t enough, a winch will do the trick. A good winch should have a minimum capacity of 8,000 pounds and be able to handle the weight of your vehicle. We like to use a synthetic rope along with the necessary accessories, like snatch blocks tree savers, and a quality pair of D-Shackles.
Hi-Lift Jack: Although, it won’t fit in your RUX, a Hi-Lift jack is a really versatile tool that can be used for everything from changing a tire to lifting your vehicle out of a ditch. Make sure to use with caution!
Traction Boards: Traction boards are used to help your vehicle gain traction when stuck in soft or muddy terrain. They should be made of a durable material and have deep treads to provide the necessary grip.
Shovel: A good shovel is essential for digging your vehicle out of sand, mud or snow. A folding shovel is the most compact and easiest to store. RUX Pro tip - use RUX straps and strap your shovel to the side of your RUX 70L.
Gloves: A pair of heavy-duty work gloves will protect your hands during recovery operations and trail repairs.
Air Compressor: An air compressor will allow you to quickly inflate or deflate your tires to the correct pressure for different types of terrain.
First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit is essential in case of injury or emergency. Keep your first aid kit easily accessible in your RUX Pocket!
Fire Extinguisher: A fire extinguisher is important in case of a vehicle fire. Make sure your fire extinguisher in good working order and isn’t expired!
Flashlight: A good flashlight or headlamp is essential for night recoveries, emergencies, or just looking for your beers in the bottom of your cooler. The RUX Pocket is the perfect grab-and-go spot to store your flashlight.
Toolkit: A vehicle specific toolkit filled with wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, spare parts and fluids are crucial to bring along. Keep your tool kit at the bottom of your RUX 70L and cross your fingers you never need to use it.